Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
Mental Health Social Workers specialize in assisting individuals with mental health conditions and emotional problems. They provide support, therapy, and guidance to help clients manage their mental health and improve their quality of life.
Education: Master's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: Internship/residency
Projected Growth: 10.6% (far above average)
Annual job openings: 13 500
Direct AI exposure: 17% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 54% of tasks
| Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Social Workers. According to the wage tables, average income is $80K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $52K per year | $64K per year | $80K per year | $94K per year | $105K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $15K above the national average. | ||||
Mental Health Social Workers are employed in various settings, including hospitals, mental health clinics, community health organizations, schools, and private practices. They may work in teams with other health care professionals and have direct interaction with clients in various environments, from office-based sessions to community visits.
Mental Health Social Workers play a crucial role in the mental health care system, offering a blend of emotional support and practical assistance. They work closely with individuals who have mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, among others. A key aspect of their role is to develop trusting relationships with clients, which involves empathetic listening, providing counseling, and helping clients navigate their day-to-day challenges. These professionals must be well-versed in various aspects of mental health, including understanding psychiatric illnesses, therapeutic techniques, and the impact of social and environmental factors on mental health. They collaborate with other health care professionals to ensure a comprehensive approach to treatment, which often includes coordinating care, advocating for clients, and providing psychoeducation to families. Mental Health Social Workers also engage in community outreach and education, working to destigmatize mental illness and promote mental health awareness. They must be adaptable, capable of working in high-stress situations, and skilled in crisis management. Their work is not just about managing symptoms, but also empowering clients to lead fulfilling lives despite mental health challenges.
A bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) is the minimum educational requirement, typically involving 4 years of undergraduate study. However, many mental health social worker positions (especially those involving clinical assessment, psychotherapy, or work in hospitals and mental health agencies) require a master's degree in social work (MSW), which adds approximately 2 years of graduate education. In Canada, mental health social workers must be registered with the provincial or territorial social work regulatory body, which requires graduation from an accredited program and adherence to professional standards. Some clinical roles may also require supervised practice and ongoing professional development.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
